Posts

Rail links plea on Paisley’s Mòd

Scottish Ministers are being urged to reverse cuts in rail services at Paisley Gilmour Street in time for Paisley’s hosting of the Royal National Mòd in October.

Renfrewshire Council Leader Mark Macmillan has written to Keith Brown MSP, Minister for Transport and Veterans, asking him to reverse controversial cuts on rail services stopping at Paisley Gilmour Street on Glasgow-Ayrshire routes. The changes were introduced in December 2012.

“Everyone is working hard to make Paisley’s hosting of the Mòd a success,” said Councillor Macmillan

“It’s vital that the Scottish Government plays its part too.

“Paisley has a unique product to offer the thousands of competitors and visitors who will come to the town.

“A major part of Paisley’s appeal has long been its public transport links by train, bus or plane at nearby Glasgow Airport.

“Discussions are continuing with local bus companies to amend services and timetables to cater for potential travel demand during this special event.

“However, the Minister’s decision to support cuts in rail services stopping at Paisley Gilmour Street is a potentially damaging factor in our efforts to attract visitors.

“It would be a massive boost for the Mòd, and The Spree, the national arts and music festival which is held at Paisley at the same time, if these damaging cuts were reversed by October.

“Paisley Gilmour Street is the fourth busiest rail station in Scotland and its role as an important regional transport hub should be reinforced not reduced.

“There has already been some tinkering at the margins in bringing back some off-peak rail services stopping at Paisley Gilmour Street on Saturdays.

“It’s time there was fair treatment and fair services for rail passengers in Renfrewshire. With these major events coming to Paisley, there’s no better time for the Scottish Government to make that change.”